Addressing Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms in Young Children: The Potential of Non-Therapeutic Play and Art

<b>Background/Objectives</b>: The search for non-therapeutic ways to reduce emotional and behavioral symptoms is an important task. The aim of this study was to assess the potential of pretend play and art-based project activity as easily implementable ways to reduce anxiety, aggression, and anti-social behavior in preschoolers. <b>Methods</b>: A total of 36 preschoolers (mean age 68.7 months) with high anxiety-withdrawal level were selected and divided into four groups: adult-supported pretend play, free pretend play, project activity, and a control group. Each group had 20 sessions, lasting 20-25 min. Pre- and post-test included the assessment of anxiety-withdrawal, anger-aggression, and social competence. Executive functions were also assessed at the pre-test as a control variable. <b>Results</b>: The results showed that art-based project activities reduced anxiety-withdrawal in preschoolers. Pretend play, both with and without adult involvement, did not have a significant effect. No significant changes were found for anger-aggression and social competence. Results revealed that the level of executive functions was a significant predictor of the reduction in anxiety-withdrawal. <b>Conclusions</b>: The study specified the role of executive functions in emotional symptoms and showed the potential of art-based project activities to reduce anxiety. The results obtained can be implemented in kindergarten practice.